FIFA and the Confederation of African Football, CAF, have both hailed the Democratic Republic of Congo after they qualified for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The Congolese edged Jamaica 1-0 in their intercontinental playoff final on Wednesday morning.

Axel Tuanzebe proved to be the hero for the Leopards as they became the 10th team from Africa to qualify.

They are now set to make only their second appearance at the World Cup, after they went there as Zaire in 1974.

CAF wrote on X: “52 years later. The return was worth the run. Already proud, DRC.”

According to FIFA, “Dreams unlocked. Congo DR are going to the #FIFAWorldCup.”

DR Congo had defeated Nigeria 4-3 via a penalty shoot-out to reach the intercontinental playoff final.